Fodor's Expert Review Musées du Cinquantenaire

For a chronologically and culturally wide-ranging glimpse into the past, head to the excellent Musées du Cinquantenaire in Parc du Cinquantenaire, which is worth a visit in itself. The vast numbers of antiquities and ethnographic treasures come from all over the world; the Egyptian and Byzantine sections are particularly fine. There's also a strong focus on home turf, with significant displays on Belgian archaeology and the immense and intricate tapestries for which Brussels once was famous. There's some information in English, and guided tours are available. There's a pleasant café on the premises.